How To Grow Amaranth

By Umar Nsubuga

Amaranth is a leafy vegetable that is commonly grown and consumed in many parts of Uganda.

Amaranth is known for its nutritional value and is easy to cultivate.

Soil preparation

Henry Sekyewa, an agronomist says amaranth is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but performs best in soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.

“Amaranth thrives in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. The soil should be prepared by digging it thoroughly and incorporating compost or manure to improve its fertility and structure,” he explains.

Planting

Seed Sowing, amaranth seeds are tiny, so they should be sown lightly. Scatter the seeds directly onto prepared beds or rows, or mix them with sand for even distribution.

Sekyewa says farmers should cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil (about 0.5 to 1 cm deep).

Spacing: Space rows about 30–40 cm apart, with 10–20 cm between plants, depending on the variety.

He sdays seeds typically germinate within 4-7 days, especially if the soil is kept moist.

Watering

Goretti Bagaya, a vegetable farmer says amaranth needs regular watering to grow well, especially during the early stages.

However, it is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Water the plants consistently to keep the soil slightly moist but avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.

Weeding and thinning

Bagaya says once the seedlings are about 10-15 cm tall, thin them to the appropriate spacing to avoid overcrowding, which can stunt growth. Regular weeding is necessary to prevent competition for nutrients and water.

Fertilising

She says amaranth doesn’t require heavy fertilisation, adding organic compost or a balanced fertiliser during the growing season can enhance growth and leaf production. Over-fertilising with nitrogen should be avoided, as it may lead to excessive leafy growth with fewer nutrients.

 Pest and disease management

Amaranth is generally pest-resistant but can be affected by leaf-eating insects such as aphids and caterpillars.

Bagaya explains that regular monitoring and, if necessary, organic pest control methods like neem oil can help. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

Harvesting

Amaranth is a fast-growing crop. Bagaya says the leaves can be harvested within 3 to 4 weeks of planting when they are tender and young.

“You can either harvest the entire plant or pick individual leaves for continuous growth. Regular harvesting encourages more leafy growth,” he states.

Post-Harvest

After harvesting, she says the leaves are usually washed and can be used fresh in dishes or dried for future use. Amaranth leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and minerals like calcium and iron, making them a nutritious addition to meals.